Collaboration
When I mess up, I tend to be really hard on myself. At first.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another. My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride. For all must carry their own loads. Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher. Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith. - Galatians 5:25-6:10
It feels so good to have someone come along and lift me up when I fail, telling me it will be all right.
But it feels even better to have them want to help.
Paul is telling the church that all members need to be there for one another, and that may sound like a chore at first. But he doesn't mean it is a burden.
When we come to the table ready to work together, we listen to the needs of everyone and find a way to accomplish what we need as we all work toward the goals we brought.
It isn't about compromise as much as it is about collaboration. How can what I am looking to do work with what you are looking to do?
When we do that, we think of new ideas that help more of us in more ways.
The advice Paul gives is good for the growth of the church and our faith, because it invites everyone to the table.
When we work together, we make miracles happen.
And remember whenever two or three are gathered in His name, He is with us.
More to come...